Went on to purchase additional rentals so tenants can pay down the loan and I build equity How did you find this deal and how did you negotiate it?

Depending on your current rate or if the current loan is short term or long term.

While you should always consult a CPA and/or attorney for their professional advice, here's my 3 cents (I'm sure others will chime in as well):1) Having an LLC may make it "easier" to track but it's not needed in this situation as you can run this through your personal return just as well.

Once you’ve built capital, transition to small multifamily units using DSCR loans for steady cash flow.If you need help analyzing deals or securing funding, let me know.

I think you would be wise to sell and use the VA loan for your new home. 

Explore FHA loans and mentorship opportunities from experienced investors.

Here's a little background on Tenant situation...has 2 or 3 young kids, an adult sister, an aunt with her male friend and the lessee has a male friend, that all appears to live in the apartment but aren't on the lease.

You can finance it with an FHA loan (3.5% down) or a conventional loan (5% down) if you plan to live in the property.

It was also difficult to assess the heating situation after repairs since tenant refused to provide key to access unit for repairs and/emergencies, citing “privacy and safety” concerns.

Through a hard money lender, but I will take out a DSCR loan in March to refinance.